Quantitative assessment of occlusal function before and after extraction of unilateral impacted mandibular third molars using the TeeTester occlusal analyzer.

BACKGROUND: Impacted teeth of mandibular third molars have been associated with disruptions in full-mouth occlusal force distribution, potentially affecting mandibular movement, masticatory muscle activity, and temporomandibular joint function. The present investigation employed the TeeTester occlusal analyzer to obtain quantitative data on the occlusal characteristics associated with impacted mandibular third molars (IM3Ms), both prior to and following surgical extraction. This approach enabled a dynamic assessment of occlusal function and provided clinical insights regarding functional changes post-intervention. METHODS: A total of 54 individuals presenting with unilateral IM3M were included and stratified into three groups based on impaction type: vertical, mesioangular, and horizontal, with 18 participants allocated to each category. Occlusal parameters were measured using the TeeTester device before extraction and one week post-extraction. RESULTS: Within the mesioangular impaction group, the mean occlusal contact time significantly decreased from 0.45 seconds pre-extraction to 0.27 seconds post-extraction (P<0.05). No statistically significant changes were detected in occlusal characteristics in either the vertical or horizontal impaction groups when comparing pre- and post-extraction measurements. CONCLUSIONS: According to the findings of this study, surgical removal of a unilaterally mesioangular IM3M resulted in a statistically significant reduction in occlusal contact time between the maxillary and mandibular dental arches on the affected side. This reduction may contribute to improved occlusal stability and function.